#and i discovered he called her little mouse

[twistedstarlitspirits]

ooc

i sit here seeking any distraction i can find because none catch my eye longer than a few minutes

wanna know a secret that upon saying i will be beholden to?

back in 2016 i was writing a dating game for XS

in the last week, my urge to distract found me picking that back up and im writing the game again

[iicehoon]

LEVEL UP | STREAMER!SOOBIN X READER

︶︶ ⊹ ︶︶︶⠀୨♡୧⠀︶︶︶ ⊹ ︶︶

"NO NO NO NO," you heard your boyfriend, Soobin, yell in despair.

Glancing at the Snoopy-themed clock, it read 2:30 AM, marking five hours since he started streaming. You recalled his excitement about being sponsored by the game, hoping for future offers if it goes well.

Rising from your spot on the shared bed, you crossed the dimly lit hall to quietly open the door to his room. He remained intensely focused on the screen, the soft clicks of his mechanical keyboard echoing as you entered. Frustrated sighs followed each demise of his character on screen.

"Chat, you don't understand," he started, setting aside his keyboard and mouse. "No username, I am not taking backseat gaming or any advice from you. The last time I did that, it made me restart the ENTIRE game."

You chuckled softly, watching your boyfriend ruffle his hair in frustration. His slouched shoulders hinted that he was nearing his breaking point and pretty ready to end the stream.

"Binnie," you called out, settling into the beanbag adjacent to his desk.

Soobin perked up instantly at the sound of his name, swiftly removing his earbuds as he rose to approach you. "When did you come in?" he asked, crouching down to your level. Leaning in, he planted a kiss on your lips before gently settling on top of you, eliciting a surprised yelp at his sudden weight.

"You've been at it for five hours, hun," you said, poking his side playfully until he squirmed and finally got up after the tenth poke.

"Come here, and I'll show you why," he motioned you over, patting his lap. His followers knew about you because he couldn't help but talk about you at times, and they have seen your face from the times you brought him snacks or a drink during his streams.

"Hi Chat," You smiled, bringing your face closer to his webcam and giving them a little wave when you settled on his lap.

"Okay," Soobin placed his chin on your shoulder and returned his hands to the keyboard and mouse. "Just watch and see why I just can't get past this stupid level."

You weren't as big of a gamer as Soobin, but you knew your way around from the games he played or even those you tried yourself from the days when he didn't want to be at his computer.

One of the perks of having a gamer boyfriend who was also a popular streamer was having access to his Steam account and his credits to buy games that piqued your interest, often discovered from TikTok.

Your eyes analyzed his movements, and you couldn't help but giggle when he dropped his head, hitting the back of your neck. "I don't understand why it's not working," he sighed in frustration.

"Well, it's because you're not hitting that when you're doing your runs," you explained, gently removing his hands from the setup in front of you. Slowly, you moved his character over to what you believed was the key element for him to pass this level. "See, it's breakable with that TNT sign on it."

You restarted the level and began to execute your run. As you played, Soobin's eyes moved back and forth between his main screen and your side profile, a lovestruck smile spreading across his face, just as his chat had claimed always happened whenever you were in his peripheral vision.

His smile widened as you cheered, successfully passing the level he had spent the majority of his time on. "Wait, babe, you're crazy good," he exclaimed, his jaw-dropping in amazement at the winning transition.

"I'm just better than you, Soobie boobie" you teased, twisting slightly to face him and sticking out your tongue.

He shook his head, laughing, and wrapped his arms tighter around your waist, giving you a quick peck on your cheek.

His joyful expression quickly shifted to one of furrowed eyebrows as he read his chat.

"Chat, she IS NOT replacing me," he groaned, "And stop asking if she's single. I'll literally make out with her right here, right now."

an | there is no specific game I'm referencing, I couldn't really think of one but if anyone has an idea, I can make it for another one!

[magics-neptunes-things]

The Dork And The Nerd

Hello there!

I didn't post anything with Leah since like for ever, so there it is!

Please enjoy :)

TW : None I think, or please let me know :)

Looking around the room, you readjust the camera one last time before starting your stream. It’s your job, even if some people are still saying that it isn’t a real job and stupid things like that.

You were winning your life easily with it, living your dream. You always loved playing video games, you started alone because it wasn’t what your little sisters were loving to do. When you discovered online games it was a life changing for you. You started streaming when you were 18 years old, which was seven years ago now. It was hard at first to be honest, being a woman in this man world.

But you find some friends in popular streamers who took you under their wings and help you to be where you are now.

You have several thousand people who follow you to each of your live, four night each week. You still have some shit to deal with, like harassers, but you took a manager who is the one reading your mail. He takes on him to choose your different partnership and sometimes answer to the people sending you strange things.

You are openly gay, but that doesn’t make stop some of men to send you disturbing pictures. Thanks god it’s your agent who see them, but you are aware of it. Just like your girlfriend, though.

You start your stream like usual, saying hello to your followers and talking a little bit about actuality or what you did today. You have a white kitten, who you called Purrito, who is almost as famous as you are. He keeps coming when you are playing, sometimes lying on your hand, or trying to catch the mouse of your computer. You already have a lot of bloopers because of him, but you can’t be mad with him.

Lately, your passion for video games seems to have catch the attention of your girlfriend. She always was looking at you when you are streaming, when she can. You usually do it during the evening so she’s back from training or games.

When Leah asked you to learn to her how to play video games, at first you thought she was messing with you. But she was really serious and ask you one more time. And who are you to refuse something to your girlfriend?

At first it was just to have fun, but you soon have an idea, and you used your best puppy eyes to get your girlfriend agreed with it. You wanted to make her play with you, but without her showing her face in your screen.

You never talked about Leah being your girlfriend, even if you are together for two years now. The public know that you are in a relationship, you sometimes mention your girlfriend live. They just don’t know who she is.

You met Leah at a ceremony and Katie who is a fan of your job took Leah when she went to met you. You were happy to met Katie, but you find yourself thunderstruck by Leah. You don’t remember if you were really coherent that night, but Leah followed you back almost immediately when you did it on Instagram.

You waited the next Arsenal games to sent her a message, congratulating her for her performance. You even take a picture of you in the stand with your father (who really was surprised when you ask him to go with you to a women football game). Leah answered you that next time you come you have to tell her, so she could give you a better seat.

You didn’t know if she was serious or not, but she then asked you the next game in London if you are coming and she find you a seat in the friends and family area. After the game she offers you to go for a drink. You then had other dates, and the rest is history.

You got together one month before she did her ACL and even if it was a hard time, you both get stronger. You let Lia Wälti take the lead in Leah’s recovery, but you were always around to help too. When Lia return to her home, you were the one staying with Leah at night. And you kept taking her in her rehab and cooking for her.

The day Leah started to run again, you were at the training to watch her. This is the day where she officially asked you to move in with her now that she could do things alone again. Unless cooking maybe, but that’s another question.

You accepted of course and the blonde happily transformed one of her guest room in your studio of stream.

It’s where you are now, Leah peacefully setting on your living room, ready to go live with you.

“Oh, it looks like our guest is here” you smile when you see that Leah is connected too. “Hi Baby!”

You only said to your viewers that it was your girlfriend, without saying anything else. You are aware that maybe someone will recognize Leah’s voice, but it would be fun anyway.

“Hi Love” she answers.

You make a reminder of the game you were going to play, for her first live Leah chose a car games, Trackmania. It wasn’t your favorite game, but you were so happy that she said yes to you that you would have accept a Tetris game.

“How are you?” you ask her, while making the game ready.

“I’m fine. Happy to play with you tonight.”

“I am happy too” you smile before looking at the camera. “Let’s have her a good evening guys so she will accept to do it more often yeah?”

You hear Leah chuckle, and you can’t help but smile. You already are seeing comments saying that you look whipped, what makes you roll your eyes. It seems to you that Leah’s voice is a little different from what it is in reality, but maybe your mind is playing trick.

You play several runs with Leah, before switching to another game after talking with your chat who recommend to you to make Leah try an adventure RPG. When you look at the clock again, it’s past midnight.

“Oh wow I didn’t realize that it was already so late” you exclaimed yourself. “We are going to stop here guys, I’m sorry. Maybe next time we will try Minecraft or something else, I’ll let you know. I hope you had as fun as I had Babe.”

“It was really fun. Thank you for inviting me.”

You can hear Leah smile and you can’t wait to go to the living room for a cuddle and kiss session. When you played together until know, you were able to show each other or tease the other with kisses.

“You will be invited for more times” you smirk.

Leah left and you take the time to thanks your viewers a little more longer before logging off. You stretch, finishing your bottle of water before going to find Leah. You run on the stairs and Leah already knew you were coming before you jump on the couch next to her.

She laughs when you attack her with kisses all over her face, finishing on her lips.

“Did you really have fun?” you ask, looking at her with attention.

She nods, playing with your hair. She’s smiling and every time you look at her, you wonder how in the world you get so lucky. She’s perfect.

“I did” she smiles at you. “I’m not saying that I want to do that all the night every night, but it was great.”

“Mh I maybe have another idea for us to have fun all night” you smirk.

The tone of your voice is very obvious and if Leah had one doubt, she just has to look the way you are looking at her. Your fingers run on her tight and you kiss her one more time, before sucking slightly at her neck.

Leah gulp and just hums, tilting her head on the side for you to have a better access. You know what you are doing, after more than two years, you know Leah’s body and reactions like the back of your hand.

“Let’s go to bed” Leah decides several seconds after, taking your hand before dragging you in your bedroom on the first floor.

********

“It was a great session.”

You smile at Leah who came to your studio after you played together again. You were still sitting when she entered the room, and she passed her hand around your shoulder from behind to kiss your cheek.

“It was” you smile before turning your chair to face Leah.

She sits on your lap, and you pass your arms around her. It wasn’t the second time that you are playing together while you are streaming, today you chose Fifa and it was very fun. You made the pact not to play with Arsenal or England, but it was still very funny. Leah is a very bad looser, so you play several games in the same team too.

“People are starting to have some suspicion though” Leah says.

She was right, you saw on social media some things about your girlfriend being Leah. But it wasn’t the only name coming.

“Yeah, they said I will make a great couple with some of your teammates too” you shrug, before counting on your fingers “They are talking about Sabrina, Alessia, Kyra and Lia.”

Leah frown, not really liking the picture who comes in her mind.

“Nah. You’re mine.” she answers possessively.

“Do you want to tell people?”

Leah looks at you, thinking for several seconds before answering. This is lasting for some weeks now and you know that you can’t stay hidden forever. You attract the attention of the world by playing together.

“Not now. It’s fun like this, don’t you think?”

“It is” you confirm with a smile.

Leah has the habit to be coupled with every teammate and you are sometimes shipped with other streamers. You like to stream with other of them, certain being your friends too. There is nothing much, but that doesn’t stop people to imagine that you are dating one of them.

But you have to admit too that your stream with Leah attracts more people than usual, and you are a little scared that people will assume that you’re using your girlfriend for the views.

Your face being very close to Leah, she seems to realize very quickly that something is on your mind.

“What’s the matter?” she asks.

“Nothing” you say at first, before sighing. “Well, I mean… I already have some viewers saying that I’m using my girlfriend to gain more viewers, so I was wondering how they would react when they realize it’s you.”

You shrug to show her that it’s not really important, you don’t want to think you are worried about something so little.

“If someone say that you know what my answer will be?” Leah asks with a serious face.

“No” you mumble.

“I will tell them that we are together for two years, that you have been the best girlfriend in the world since. I will tell them how affectionate, caring, sweet, funny, clever and passionate you are.”

You can’t help but smile and feel your cheek being a little red at that statement. Leah smirks and kisses your cheek.

“And I’ll add that if you use me, it’s only in the bedroom and the way you do is actually very talented and also very private.”

You laugh this time, hitting her on the arm. Leah seems very happy about her joke, her eyes shinning with malice. She’s so beautiful. You bite her jaw before whispering.

“You’re such a dork.”

“The Nerd and the Dork, it would be a great book title” she smirks.

“You’re not totally wrong.”

********

“You’re cheating!”

You can’t help but laugh at Leah. You are playing once again against your girlfriend, during a live. You are playing at Mario Kart and you just won the race for the third time in a row. She’s fuming and even if you can’t see her, the noise coming from downstairs are letting you know that she’s actually kicking the ground right now.

“I’m not, Baby I swear. You can’t cheat in this game.”

“Yes, you are!”

You roll your eyes, not answering anything. You are of course very aware about of much your girlfriend hates to lose. You are at the first place while Leah is third, which is really good for someone who isn’t playing video games daily like you. But not for the great Leah Williamson.

“Someone in the comment is saying that I will sleep on the couch. I won’t Babe, right?”

“I’m not sure about it for now” Leah grumbles. “Or maybe I’ll go sleep to the trai…”

You cough suddenly and Leah stops talking, realizing what she was just about to say. You really hope that no one would understand what she was going to say. Or at least another end of sentence, not “training ground”.

“Alright, next game” you say right after.

“I’m gonna crush you.”

She doesn’t and when you join her in the kitchen after, she seems really embarrassed. You ignore the different messages asking what Leah wanted to say and the answer some of them gave. You saw that some people where right and you know that the research will start again.

“I’m so sorry” she says, coming for you while you’re entering the room. “I was fuming because I was losing, and I forgot for some seconds that it wasn’t only you and me.”

You smile, easily passing your arms around her to give her a hug. She cuddles against you when you kiss her temple.

“It’s ok, don’t worry. Plus, you are the most famous between the both of us, you will be the most annoyed by all that.”

“Why would I be annoyed?”

Leah back up her head a little bit, just to be able to have a better look at your face. You arch an eyebrow before answering.

“Because you always told me you want privacy.”

It was in the early hours of your relationship, and you never said anything against it. You understood Leah’s needs, at this time you weren’t as famous as you are right now. She wanted to be known for her skills, her job in football or her implications in different charities. And the point was very easy for you to be understood. Your friends are families know obviously about you two, it would be strange and difficult to hide a relationship when you live together. Plus because of her answer last time you talked about it, you were really sure that it was what she want.

“I told you that at first, but now I wouldn’t mind if people start to know about us.”

She shrugs like it’s nothing, but your mind just blown. You were used to the idea of people stay in the ignorance about your relationship and the love you have for this woman. As long as you have her, why would you complain?

“Do you… Really?” you frown.

“Yeah, I mean if you don’t want to be out…”

“No, I do. I just thought that you would like to stay private for like forever?”

“I love you. I want the world to know how happy you make me. But in several weeks. I want to play with your fans a little more.”

“Sounds good to me” you smirk. “And I love you too.”

********

For the next weeks, you chose one day of the week to play and stream with Leah. Between those days, you were careful to post some things on social media, giving little clues to your followers about the identity of your girlfriend. You never posted something with Leah or even with a part of her hand or hair. It was more subtle than that.

Until one day, where you were peacefully streaming while Leah went out with her friends. You usually go with her, but today it was more an unexpected drink, so you already have something planned on your channel. You have an entire trust in Leah, and you know that nothing would ever happen with anyone. If you go with her almost every time, it’s only to have a great time with her.

Plus, tonight she’s out with Katie, Caitlin, Steph, her boyfriend, and Kyra, so there are really no risks.

You usually wait for Leah to text you that she was coming home to cut your stream, so you have the time to finish what you are doing and say goodbye to your viewers. Tonight though, either you didn’t see her message, or she forgot to send it to you.

Still, there is suddenly a stunning blonde who enters your studio, showing herself in the camera at the same time. You are so surprised that you only can look at her on the screen of your camera.

“Hello Hot stuff! You won’t believe what I just learned about Kyra! Did you k- … Oh shit.”

That’s the moment she realizes. It was almost comical to be honest, the enthusiastic tone with which she began her sentence, the moment of silence and the last words spoken in a low voice.

You only have like two seconds to decide if you want to cut the stream and never talk about it again, or if it’s time to be honest with everyone. You chose a third way and turn to the camera.

“Well it’s time for me to say goodbye. See you tomorrow at eight. Thanks for being here!”

You wave and cut the stream and the camera before turning in Leah’s direction. She seems amused but she has at the same time the same look on the face of a teenager caught doing something wrong.

“Funny way to outing things, this clip will be viral” you comment with a small smile.

“I’m sorry?”

Leah can’t hide her smile and you can’t either. You can be mad at her for something like that. You let Leah comes to sit on your lap, kissing her softly when she’s settled. She taste like tequila.

“How was your night?”

“Great. But I missed you.”

She hides her face in your neck, and you feel the goosebumps forming when her breath stroke your skin.

“Did you have fun?”

She hums, start to kiss your neck and you know that the discussion you were supposed to have right now is delayed for now. You will have a lot of time to talk about it later. Your phones are way too busy receiving tons notifications to be able to do anything with it right now anyway.

********

YourInstagram and LeahWilliamson

liked by liawalti, leahwilliamson, alessia, bethmead and 199,937 others

YourInstagram Two years and a half with this dork. I love you ❤️🤍

comments have been limited

leahwilliamson I love you more my Nerd ❤️🤍  

[mariclerc]

Dreams and adventures by the sea | Charles Leclerc

Hello, this is the first time I write here and I like the idea of making several stories! English is not my first language so there are some translation errors, if you see one, please let me know!

Synopsis: Where you and Charles are fully enjoying the summer break with your little girl and you discover a recurring dream that he has.

Warning: None, just a little Charles fluff and Charles!dad/family man. I hope you like it <3

Sunbeams dance on the turquoise water, palm trees sway gently in the breeze. Charles Leclerc, tanned and carefree, chases a giggling Mollie along the shore. Her tiny pink swimsuit with flamingos glistens in the sun's rays as she squeals with delight and her tiny footprints disappear into the sand as the two year old girl scampers.

"Catch me, Mollie-mouse! Catch Papa!" He said as he chased after Mollie, they were running in circles.

"Dada! Dada!" She shouted with joy in her voice.

Charles scoops her up, spinning her in the air, the sea shimmering behind them. She throws her arms around his neck, burying her face in his shoulder while she giggled.

"Careful, you two! Don't turn into sandcastles before lunchtime!" You called to them from under a beach umbrella as you smiled.

Charles grins, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Just practicing our pit stops, amore. We have to be ready for next season."

He plops down beside you on the sand, Mollie wriggling between you like a happy starfish. You carefully brush sand off her damp hair, her tiny fingers clutching at your necklace.

"This is the life, isn't it? No deadlines, no cameras, just family and sunshine." You said with a bright smile on your face, it had been a long time since you two had been so relaxed with your favorite people in the whole world.

"Except maybe less sand in the sandwiches, hmm?" He said while nuzzling your neck.

He winks, then reaches for a mango smoothie. You roll your eyes, but the corners of your lips rise. He's never learned to apply sunscreen, and his olive skin is already freckled with a toasty glow, but he still looks cute, as always.

"You look like a tomato patch, Charles. Don't you ever learn?" You rolled your eyes playfully at him.

"Sun's my natural fuel, amore. Makes me look like a Ferrari on the track, don't you think?" He said while shrugging his shoulders.

Mollie reaches for your smoothie, her tiny hand leaving a sticky trail. You laugh, handing her a small sip of your smoothie.

"Just don't blame me when you're peeling like a banana tomorrow."

"Wouldn't trade this sunburn for anything, not even a podium finish." He said with a smile, probably the most sincere smile you've ever seen.

He pulls you close, your skin cool against his heat. Mollie snuggles between you, her eyelids heavy with the sun and the sea. You watch the waves roll in, the sound like a lullaby.

"This is the best kind of winning, isn't it? Just being here, with you, with her."

"The only trophy I need." He said as he placed a kiss on your forehead.

He rests his head on your shoulder, and you close your eyes, breathing in the salty air, the warmth of the sun, the tiny, rhythmic pulse of your daughter's heart against your chest. In this moment, the world shrinks to just this small patch of paradise, a bubble of love and laughter, and you wouldn't trade it for anything.

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Back on the yacht, the sun dips lower, painting the sky in fiery hues of orange and pink. Mollie, tired from her beach adventures, yawns and snuggles into Charles' arms. He bounces her gently, singing a soft lullaby that sends shivers down your spine.

"She's out like a light. All that beach air must be exhausting." You smiled as you looked at them.

"Don't worry, amore. We'll have plenty of time for adventures tomorrow. Tonight, it's just you and me." He said in a low voice so as not to wake her.

He winks, his eyes glinting with a familiar spark. You laugh, your heart skipping a beat each time he winks at you.

"And don't think about asking me to help with sunscreen again. You're on your own, tomato boy." You said jokingly.

"Hey! I resemble that remark. Besides, your touch is like magic SPF, amore. Keeps my skin smooth and my engine purring." He pretended to be offended by your words, but then he giggled like a teenage boy.

He pulls you close, your lips meeting in a kiss as sweet as the mango smoothie. The fire crackles on the deck, its warm glow illuminating your faces. The ocean laps against the hull, a gentle rhythm that lulls you into a world of your own.

"I love this, Charles. Just being here, with you and Mollie, although she is asleep, on the open sea. It feels like we're the only two people in the world." Did you whisper delicately.

"We are, chérie. We definitely are." He kissed your forehead with such care.

He leans back, his gaze sweeping across the vast expanse of water. He usually has a vacant look when he is very lost in thought or when he is thinking about something quite deep.

"You know, sometimes I dream about what it would be like to leave all this behind. The racing, the pressure, the fame..." he let out a soft sigh "You know, spending my days with you two without worrying if you're okay while I'm on the other side of the world."

"And become a beach bum? I'm not sure Mollie would appreciate the sand in her toys." You raised an eyebrow as you spoke and giggled slightly.

"No, no, darling, something simpler, you know sweetie... Just a small house by the sea, maybe a little vineyard...a family to raise. I know we've talked about this before, but I'd like to experience that quiet life with you." He said chuckling.

You have had this conversation a couple of times, especially the time you got pregnant, at that time you were 23 and he was 24 and you both had no idea what to do, you were very afraid. He at that time proposed the idea of leaving his racing career behind and focusing purely on you and Mollie, you obviously told him no, since one of his dreams was always, apart from having a family of his own, was to be a racing driver and leave a mark on the sport. You, for your part, when you told your parents that you were expecting Charles's baby, it was perhaps the worst thing you would have said to them, They did not take the news kindly and even told you to abort the baby, but obviously, that was not in your plans, you also wanted a family with Charles, he was always the ideal person for you. Since that exchange of opinions between your parents and you, they never spoke to you again and you did the same and honestly, it was better that way for you and your family.

Now looking back, you didn't regret that decision, on the contrary, you were grateful that it was like that since you knew how judgmental your parents are and how much they criticized you for the slightest, Charles could also experience that the times he went to visit you at your parents' house, they were not very nice to him, it doesn't matter if you had been dating for a long time.

He looks at you, his eyes full of longing. You reach out, tracing the lines of his pretty sun-kissed face. He gives you a small smile, the cutest thing you've ever seen, of course... Aside from your little Mollie.

"We already have that, Charles. We have everything we need my baby."

"Everything except maybe a little more time. Maybe a little less asphalt and a little more sand." He said as he pulled you closer to him.

He kisses you again, this time a slow, burning kiss that speaks volumes of unspoken dreams and shared desires. In that moment, you see a glimpse of the man behind the racing helmet, the boy who yearns for simple things, for a life built on love and laughter. The boy you fell in love with since you were 18 and the one who ensures the safety of his girls.

"Maybe you're right, Charles. Maybe next season, we'll find a different kind of track to conquer. One that leads us back to this very spot, with the sun on our skin and the sea in our hearts." You smiled at him.

He looks at you, his eyes filled with a promise of forever. You know, deep down, that this is just the beginning. The open sea is not just a backdrop, it's a symbol of endless possibilities, a life waiting to be written, together as a family.

And as the stars begin to twinkle in the darkening sky, you raise your glass to the future, a future painted with the colors of love, laughter, and the endless horizon.

[undeadcannibal]

imagine one of the Fem! rookies getting lil skeleton hands tattooed on her hands, and ghost just-

*INSTANT BONER*

Summary: Ghost can’t help but be turned on when he notices the Recruits’ new tattoos. Pairing: Simon “Ghost” Riley/Reader

Genre: One-shot, request(s) Word count: 1,138

Warnings: Mature rating, mention(s) of sexual acts.

A/N: Ooh, I had fun with this one, Anon. Was tempted to turn it into a full fic, but figured I’d be an asshole and tease y’all since I write tons of smut otherwise. Whoops! Anywho, thank you so much for the request, Anon. I hope y’all enjoy it~ Also, I apologize if this has a lot of mistakes. I’ve been slammed with allergies, mental stuff, and work, so I’m all sorts of fucked lol. ( Gif credit: xxx )

Ghost paid little mind to most of the rookies they trained. At least, he had before until he'd met you a few months back. Price had mentioned to 141 he was interested in possibly having each of them bring some new recruits under their wing to help show them the ropes. He figured if anyone could get any of them ready, it'd be his boys. Each of them eventually had someone signed to them to help train. Ghost's recruit certainly was interesting, to say the least. 

John had figured with Ghost being more reserved than the rest of the group, it might be easier if he had a recruit that kept to themselves more than the rest. He was thankful for that. The less he had to worry about babysitting, the better. Thankfully, that never seemed to be the case with the recruit Price had assigned to him. 

You went by the call sign Mouse. 

At first, he'd assumed it was for your small stature, but after he'd heard whispers from the others, he quickly realized it was due to your specialty for silence and speed. Apparently, you were just as quiet as you were quick in your fieldwork. That he could appreciate. Yet, aside from that, he didn't know much about you even after weeks of training together. 

Aside from learning the truth behind your call sign, he'd also come to notice that - surprisingly - you were covered in numerous tattoos.

Every time the two of you sparred together, he found himself discovering a new tattoo he hadn't seen before or a blank spot that had yet to be filled with ink. 

Eventually, somewhere around the two-month mark, he found himself asking you about them after a successful session. You'd finally managed to break out of a particular grapple you were struggling with thanks to the size difference between you two. However, Ghost refused to relent until you'd gotten the hang of it. Your enemies wouldn't play fair if they towered over you, so he had to prepare you for any sort of outcome to give you the best chance of survival possible. Still, that didn't mean he was so strict as to not celebrate the small victories. 

As the two of you were hydrating after training, he'd found it in him to comment on your tattoos for whatever reason. 

"Noticed you had a blank spot there." He'd comment, glancing down at the blank space of flesh on your hands. It'd surprised him to see your arms covered yet you still had yet to choose something for them. Maybe you didn't care for hand tattoos, he wondered... 

"Have any plans for 'em?" 

You paused in bringing your water bottle to your lips, pursing them as you hummed softly. Seemingly debating on how to answer his question. 

"Mm, yeah... I've got a few ideas in mind for them, but have yet to settle on anything yet." 

He was content to leave it at that had it not been for your next response. 

"I've got a few ideas in mind but haven't settled on anything just yet. Tell you what though, when I do get those spots filled in, you'll be the first one I show them to." 

By the time that'd happened, it'd been a few months later and he'd pretty much forgotten the interaction until he'd bumped into you again on his way out for a smoke break. You'd stopped to say hi and chat for a bit before he suddenly saw your eyes widening. A giddy smile broke out on your face shortly afterward. 

"Oh, I nearly forgot!" Raising the sleeves of your long sleeve top, you also quickly rid yourself of those pair of gloves he often saw you wearing. "Check out the new tattoos I got while I was back home." 

With your forearms and hands bare to him, he could see the fresh, black ink now covering the spaces on your appendages that previously clear soft skin. 

The moment he realized what the tattoos were, Simon was thankful for the strait-laced control of his reactions. Certain if he wasn't so strict with himself that he'd be giving off numerous micro-expressions showing his interest in your new pieces. 

Of all the tattoos you had to get, it just had to be a stylistic representation of your wrists and hands skeletal system. 

Rationally, he understood that the new set of ink likely had no meaning behind it - most of his own didn't - but a smaller, possibly more primal part of him wanted to puff up his chest. Preen at the thought of everything you could have chosen, it was something similar to the gloves he often wore himself. Only much more permanent. And attractive. 

Fucking hell, he was down bad over something that meant nothing at all. 

Just so he didn't break down and smile, Ghost took a long and deep drag of his cigarette before exhaling the entirety of the smoke from his lungs. Watching the vapors dissipate entirely before finally having it in him to look at you once again. 

"How'd you do during the fingers and knuckles?" 

You laughed sweetly and softly, causing him to feel an odd sense of pride in being the cause behind that laughter. Especially when he took notice of the way your cheeks appeared even softer and rounder than usual as you did so. 

Eyes down, soldier. Look at the tattoos, not her damn squishable cheeks. 

Watching you wiggle your fingers in his direction, you grinned up at him cheekily. 

"Pain comes with the territory. Besides, I kinda enjoy that type of pain, and it's also a hell of a lot cheaper than therapy." You joked. 

Simon felt like a pitiful man when he felt the familiar stirring of arousal deep within his lower belly shortly after. His mind already drifting towards mental images of you down on your knees before him. Opening his pants just so you could wrap those tattooed fingers around the base of his cock. Stroke him till he grew hard and began to twitch within your palms. Eventually - given your permission - he'd paint the dark ink with his release, claiming you in a way and--

He needed to stop his thoughts before he began to spiral down the rabbit hole that was his sudden lewd thoughts that came on with your new tattoos. 

He was going to need another cigarette as soon as he finished his first one. 

Clearing his throat, Simon glanced at you with dilated, bright eyes. 

"They look good on you, kid." 

Even if he wouldn't admit it aloud, Ghost secretly saw it as a secret bond between the two of you.

Now, you had a permanent mark of his favorite pair of gloves on your body.

The thought alone turned him on much more than he'd ever thought possible. 

[readychilledwine]

Azriel Masterlist

Azriel x Lyria Vanserra

After a mission leaves Az sore, Madja and Rhys suggest he sees Lyria, a healer who specializes in massage therapy

Bound By Fate Series Masterlist

When Kaylee Archeron meets Azriel, her world turns upside down. Between balancing her trauma, new powers, a mating bond, and war looming over her new home, Kaylee learns that everything is not as little as it once seemed.

Beauty in Pain - Request - A failed mission leads to our reader losing her wings (Azriel x Illyrian Reader)

Surprises ** - Azriel has wanted to touch his high lady for a long time (Azriel x Tamlin's Sister OC x Rhysand)

Part 2

Devotion - Request - Based on the quote prompt "I can hold the world in my two hands" (Azriel x Reader)

Replacement - Based *loosely* on a Request - After Azriel's son calls his mate, "mommy", reader is out in a situation where all three of them are healing from trauma

Losing Forever - Request - After his mate heads home to care for her sick father and brother, Azriel is faced with the consequences.

Whispers in The Dark ** - Request - Azriel is ever the opportunist when it comes to using a recently discovered fetish against you.

Cat and Mouse

Request - After reports of Illyrian males torturing females and children hit Rhysand's desk, he, Cassian, and Azriel bring you to the camps for the first time in search of answers.

Lollipop ** After being silenced during the High Lord's meeting with her favorite candy. Seraphina finds herself the center of a certain shadowsingers attention

Part 2 **

For Science ** Request - Azriel and Eris finally agree on one thing, your bratty behavior can't continue to go unpunished

Small World Mini Series

20 years away from the Inner Circle was exactly what Azriel needed to heal. It was exactly what he needed to bring him to you, but the world has a funny way of bringing everything full circle.

The Breakfast Club - After missing breakfast unexpectedly, a hidden relationship is revealed to Azriel's family, who can't tell if they're more surprised by you or his cat.

Oath - Y/n was taken in by Feyre as a small child, and now lives with her in the Night Court, but her favorite person is and will always be Azriel

When I'm Gone - You always had the perfect answer, even when you weren't there to give it anymore

Odd One Out - After 500 years of friendship, the last thing you ever expected was the Inner circle to miss one of your symphonies. But you know what they say, time changes people.

Part 1

Part 2

AZRIEL WEEK -2023

[dark-and-kawaii]

ok HEAR ME OUT your last raphael fic was magnificent and got me..thinking of things🫣 imagine him taking tav with him to the HoH after impregnating (if he hasn’t yet before), to always keep an eye on her progress and to f her whenever he pleases of course, worshipping her body like she’s a goddess as she grows

I may have gotten carried away with this, but I really enjoy Raphael and this request had me cooking for a while. It got dark near the end but we gotta remember this is still Raphael bahaha!!! Thank you for the love and support 🫶 I really hope you like this anon

Raphael - Pregnancy - Possessiveness - Death - Protectiveness - NSFW

Raphael’s world was turned upside down when he discovered that you were carrying his child- an heir that awakened an intense sense of ownership within him. Should anything happen to his child or you he’d rip every soul from every last being once he claimed the nine Hells. Consumed by these feelings, he had made the decision to bring you back to Hell with him, driven by a need to keep a watchful eye on your pregnancy's progress.

With each curve of your growing form, Raphael is both enraptured and possessively drawn to you. He admires your pregnant beauty as if you were a goddess, your radiance captivating and enthralling him. Unyielding desires surge through his veins, fueled by a hunger for power and utter control. Raphael sees your pregnancy as the ultimate manifestation of yours and his union, a divine creation meant to bring forth an heir worthy of his wicked legacy.

Walking through his House of Hope, Raphael's lustful needs called for fulfillment, and it was you he would seek out… Bypassing his personal incubus, Haarlep. Perhaps he’d come back to the fool once his child came to be in this world… As for now though, Raphael only wished to devour you whole and to watch you come undone on his cock once more while his hands rested on the swell of your stomach.

Your moans and pleasurable screams could be heard throughout the boudoir and into the grand hall of Raphael’s domain. He savored the way your voice grew louder, quivering as you urged him on, the rhythmic thumping of his bed against the wall getting faster as you bounced on his cock vigorously. His name slipping from your lips while you cum on his pretty cock for the third time that night.

“Always so eager to please me, rest now little mouse. You deserve it after such a riveting performance.”

With your head now rested on Raphael’s chest, your body coated in sweat as you slept soundly… He glides the tip of his fingers down your exposed flesh as Haarlep watches their master display a rare form of affection.

Haarlep, driven by their own carnal desires, could not comprehend the depth of Raphael's love for you. For you were only supposed to be tool for him to use. Has his master grown soft? Mocking and taunting, Haarlep belittles Raphael's affections for you, “A once lost thief in the night now held tight by the devil himself as if she were some precious treasure. How-“.

Raphael scrunched his nose with stern disapproval, he had enough of Haarlep’s impish behavior and warns his incubus, “If you aren’t careful dear pet you may find yourself hanging in the basement with our dear friend, Hope.” The devil made it abundantly clear that his love for you was to be respected and not ridiculed… Haarlep stayed silent, their tail resting on your leg- a sign that they know their place and will do their best to keep their masters lover safe when not around.

A deep laugh emanated from Raphael’s chest, “Good. I’m delighted that you’ve found sense again, I was worried there for a moment.”

Though as time went by Haarlep's mockery persisted, but Raphael's unwavering love for you remained true as your pregnancy progressed. He refused to let anyone, not even Haarlep, cast doubt on his devotion. With a immoral determination to protect you his beloved, and his unborn child; Raphael defended you against the jeers and taunts of Haarlep, showing that his feelings were not to be trifled with...

One morning you awoke to a strange coldness… Both Haarlep and Raphael were usually entwined with you each and every time you awoke… Yet, “Raphael,” you call out to him, nudging him attempting to wake him, “where is Haarlep?” The devil pulls you into him best he can without putting pressure on your stomach, his wings enveloping you, “You’ll be leaving with Korilla in an hour to Baldurs Gate. Make haste and get ready, you don’t want to keep her waiting.” You could hear the grin in his voice, “I expect a visit from my dear father, Mephistopheles and I rather you not be present when he shows.”

A chill runs through you with every word your fiendish lover speaks… Raphael wickedly confessing to you that he has taken the life of his incubus, no remorse or regret evident.

[demonicbaby666]

Nap Time

one shot | Criminal Minds Masterlist | Masterlists

Fandom: Criminal Minds

Pairing: BAU family x Reader

Genre: drabble/office fun

Words: 651

A/N- I legit hate the title for this but my brain is not working and I cannot think of anything else. Anyways enjoy!

It was already 7pm and you still had work to do, knowing exhaustion was already subduing your body you decided the best course of action would be to take a nap in your secret napping area. You were certain no one knew you’d often creep under your desk during long workdays and sneak in a little rest bite. You did a quick scan of the room to check if anyone could see you before ducking under your desk and draping a shawl over you. 

Setting a timer for 30 minutes, you let sleep steadily wash over your body, curled up nice and secure in your napping nook. When your eyes fluttered open, it was not by your alarm going off, the absence of the sound was reassuring as you had yet to feel fully rejuvenated. Though your head perked up when there was a flash right before your eyes and you squinted at the assaulting bright light. 

Laughing in front on you was Morgan holding up his phone, your chair was pushed to the side and realisation dawned on you that you had been discovered. The moment Morgan saw you becoming alert, he went into action mode and tried to run off. You grabbed his ankle trying to hoist yourself up and simultaneously stop him from running off with the embarrassing evidence he had just obtained. Hitting your head on the desk you still manged to trip Morgan, but he was quick on his feet to recover and threw his phone to Rossi unexpectedly.

When he looked at the phone and back to your disgruntled state a burst of laughter erupted from his lips. “Now that’s a keeper. Look you can see the pool of dribble!” He teased.

“Rossi delete that!” You called out, finally emerging fully from the once peaceful sanctuary of your desk. You power walked over to the older man trying to reach for the pesky device in his hand, but he didn’t give you the opportunity to grab the phone as he threw it to Emily. Who in turn bit her bottom lip trying not to laugh, her attempt was very unsuccessful. 

With the phone seeming to continuously be out of reach you felt like you were prey in a den of lions, they had you playing a game of cat and mouse. You darted from agent to agent, losing more and more of your dignity as they all beheld the image of you sleeping peacefully. 

“Reid come on!” you shouted as the phone was once again thrown, this time to JJ. Out of everyone in the team you believed JJ was the most sensible and considerate. So, what came next was a complete shock.

“I’m sorry.” She said with a tight-lipped smile looking sympathetically at you. Everyone’s phone in the office dinged and you threw her head back in frustration. Guess there was no more desk naps for you.

“I hate you guys.” you huffed, pulling out your own phone to look at the monstrous photo you’d yet to have the privilege of seeing. 

Beyond pissed off you made your way to JJ and whispered in her ear, “I’m going to get you back for this later. Sleep with one eye open you beautiful monster.” A chill ran down the blonde’s spine and when she turned to look at you wide eyed you couldn’t help but cackle at the fear plastered on her face.

Yanking the phone from her hand, you walked over and shoved it into Morgan’s chest, “You’re going to pay for this baldy. Big time.” 

Morgan burst out laughing and pulled you in, draping his arm around your shoulder, he ruffled your hair, “Whatever you say tiny.” 

When you sat back at your desk Hotch appeared above you sporting his signature smirk, “Good nap?”

Your reply came in the form of a groan as you defeatedly smacked your head against the desk. 

[extremelyblackandwhite]

pairing: dad!bucky barnes x au pair!reader

warnings: age gap (reader is 10 years younger than bucky), smut (18+, dni if under 18)

author’s note: i got given a vinyl of go your own way/silver springs last week by my mum that she bought when she was younger, so i've been playing it time and time again and it bled onto this chapter.

masterlist

i know i could've loved you but you would not let me.

Bucky knew Y/N was upset. That's all he knew. He knew she'd come from her date and ever since she'd been quiet as a mouse and that was something considering Y/N gave her opinion anytime the opportunity presented itself. He'd even change the order her mugs in, to see if she would say something, instead she just grabbed a mug and went upstairs to her room whenever he was home to watch Sadie. If he was looking after Sadie, then Y/N would not be found for long stretches of time, instead looked into her bedroom with note and after note typing aggressively - a routine which made Bucky thankful he'd never pursued a PhD or anything other than a bachelors. He'd started to leave little snacks around her room whenever she went out, a pack of Oreos stashed in her nightstand, dehydrated mango slices from the brand she liked on top of her computer, little pots of coconut yoghurt. He knew she was always in that bedroom and he also knew she wouldn't come out no matter if it was breakfast, lunch or dinner.

He was sure there was only one person to blame - Christopher. Sure, Y/N and Bucky fought about it before she went on her date, they always did, but it never resulted in her becoming a hermit, locked in her room. As such, Chris was now enemy number one and Bucky was sure if HR discovered, he would get in trouble. He wasn't making the kid's life too hard, he was just making him work nights and overtimes and weekends. He'd also sent Chris on a coffee run. Yet Y/N continued in her little cocoon of sadness and tonight was no difference. Bucky had ordered Italian in and ended up the evening watching Beauty and the Beast with Sadie. The redhead had fallen asleep at the midpoint and as Bucky was ready to call it a night, he heard the soft steps of Y/N's coming down the stairs, holding a stack of plates and mugs. She was in her little white vintage chenille robe embroidered with blue and pink flowers, her hair up with a way too big claw clip and white fuzzy socks. If Bucky wasn't worried about her, he'd be wondering about what was under her robe.

      - You want some Italian? - Bucky got up to follow her from the kitchen. - I got some of that weird spinach pasta you like. Extra mozzarella balls just as you like.

      - No. - she placed the plates in the sink, starting to wash them with the cranberry dish soap that she always bought the moment the first autumn leaf fell.

      - You didn't come up of your little cocoon today. You know, the cleaning maid is wondering if I'm cutting your pay since you're keeping one bedroom and one bathroom hostage.

      - I can move to the guest bedroom. - she moved to grab a plate but the slippery porcelain slipped, crashing into a thousand bits to the ground. She sighed, her lip quivering and almost as if by seconds, she started crying.

Y/N went down to her knees, grabbing at the pieces of porcelain and shards, as if pushing them together would bring it back.

      - Y/N, shit, darling ... - he went back to his knees to put his hands on her arms to pull her up. - It's ok, don't pick them up, you'll get hurt.

      - I'm sorry. - she sniffled, her hands attempting to go and rub her eyes but Bucky stopped them in case she had little shards of porcelain stuck to her palms. - I'll clean it up, I promise.

      - It's fine. - Bucky kicked the big shards away. - What's wrong, Y/N? Is it Chris? Did he hurt you?

      - I'm gonna fail my viva. - she sniffled once more. - And I'm gonna have to go back to Ohio and I'm not made to live in Ohio.

      - Why would you go back to Ohio?

      - My parents bought a farm there after retiring. I am not Ohio farm material, Bucky. I'm afraid of horses.

      - Why would you even fail your viva? You're a smart woman, you're at a good university, you are okay. - Bucky wrapped his arms around her. - Probably not for long if you keep not eating. Go seat and I'll get you your disgusting pasta.

      - It is not disgusting. - Y/N rolled her eyes before making her way to the table. - Buck? Can I become your secretary if I fail my viva?

      - No. Your skirts aren't as short as I'd like. - he joked, bringing her pasta in a plate and pushing it towards her. - You're too fucking smart to be my secretary, if you were in my company you'd be CEO or something.

      - I worked my entire life for this. - she toyed around with her food, looking up with eyes still wet. - You know? I didn't come from legacy families or families who could actually afford to send me to college, I worked my ass off because I thought if I did I'd get somewhere. I'd be someone, I wouldn't have to count my pennies, I would be respected. Instead, everyone thinks I'm a joke on track to become your unfuckable housewife.

      - Now c'mon, if you do become my housewife, I would fuck you at least once a night. - he joked trying to lighten the mood but Y/N merely deadpanned at him. - Twice actually. You have a nice ass.

      - Not helping.

      - Because you're being ridiculous. You wanna know the reason I hired you? You had zero experience but you were smart and you were fiery and independent and I wanted my daughter to be like that.

      - You're just saying that because you're tired of bathing, Sadie.

      - I'm saying that because you're a great student and you're a smart woman. Besides, if they fail you, we'll just have to bribe the university. We'll donate a building for you.

      - You're not funny. - she swallowed in a giggle before taking the first forkful of pasta.

      - No, really, we'll get you a building. - he moved to seat next to her. - Maybe an astronomy one.

      - How swell.

      - I mean, maybe an astronomy building will be too much. Maybe a farming one.

      - God, I'm never telling you anything ever again. - she took another forkful of food. Bucky was glad he'd distracted her enough where she was eating, genuinely eating. - How's Sadie?

      - Sadie is doing well. She's supposed to go back to kindie next week but I was taking of taking her to the office for a bit. You know? I don't trust the roudy kids.

      - It's a private kindergarten. The senator's grandchild goes there, Bucky. I doubt they have their own fight club.

      - Have you ever seen a bunch of 2 year olds? They're terrifying and Sadie is a sensitive baby.

      - So you'll take her to a corporate office?

      - It's gonna be her company one day. Start them young. - he joked once more. - You want some ice cream? I tried to look for one that would be suitable for 2 year olds but then I came home and goggle it and they said I should blend frozen bananas instead.

Truth was, he'd bought a bunch of flavours thinking one would be Y/N's favourite and would entice her to eat something. That had ended up with him holding over 10 flavours of ice cream in his freezer. He came back with a selection of flavours he thought he wanted in a nice little dish. Y/N always liked nice little dishes.

      - Maybe I just don't belong, you know? - Y/N sighed. - In academic research. Most people come from well off families or are really smart, I'm just ...

      - You're just you. - Bucky said, leaning his chin on his hand to stare at her.

      - Yeah. I'm just me. Plain, old, me. Daughter of working class parents, me. Mediocre grade at masters, me. - she sighed once more, looking at the melting ice cream. - I can't even keep a relationship from falling apart.

      - Chris broke up with you?

      - I am not dating Chris so he can't technically break up with me. Besides, it wasn't like it would actually work.

      - I'm sorry.

      - No, you're not. - she looked at him, cocking her head to the side. - You'll probably be dancing in the grave of my situationship.

      - I don't dance, Y/N. I'm a respectable man. - he once again tried to make light of the situation. - What happened?

      - Guess I'm not suitable or good enough or don't do enough. One of the three. Whatever. - she chuckled dryly. - It was nice to have someone like me even if the me they liked was someone I'm not.

      - You act as if other people don't like you.

      - It's not that they don't like me but they also don't like me. You know what I mean? They put up with me, they are alright with me, they are cordial but they don't like me. They don't tolerate me.

      - I like you. - those words flew out of his lips like it was the most natural thing for him to say. As if he were stating an irrefutable fact like the sky looks blue or the Earth is round. - I like you. Just the way you are.

Y/N's lips parted as she waited for something to compliment the sentence. I like you just the way you are but less difficult, I like you just the way you are but prettier, I like you just the way you are but less argumentative, I like you just the way you are but as a friend. Yet those words never came and she found herself instead staring at the man in front of her, staring into those blue eyes like some sailor drawn to the sea.

      - Daddy? - Bucky recognised his daughter's voice. Bad timing, bad, bad timing.

      - Hey bug. - Y/N got up from her chair and walked up to the 2 year old, kneeling down to her level. - Are you alright?

      - Nightmare.

      - Aw that's awful, bug. I'll go and tuck you in and stay there while you fall asleep. Sounds good?

(...)

      - I'm telling you, Steve. I fucked up.

      - When you said we needed to have an urgent meeting, I didn't think this would be it.

Bucky had called Steve in London, the meeting screen showing Steve in his office. Yet, instead of one of their regular meetings to check with the state of the London office, it was Bucky talking to Steve. He'd fucked up, he'd fucked up badly and he'd only realise he'd fucked up once he woke up this morning and Y/N had left, leaving a note merely saying she had gone down to Ohio to be with her parents for a bit.

      - You just said you liked her, so what? At least you didn't tell her you loved her. It could have been interpreted differently.

      - You don't understand, Steve. I told her I liked her just the way she is.

      - Alright, Mark Darcy, pipe down. Have you considered that maybe, just maybe, Y/N wants to go see her parents because she hasn't seen them in ages? Maybe because she's upset and wants to be with her mum and dad?

      - I'm telling you, she's gonna quit.

      - She's not gonna quit, Barnes. She likes Sadie too much, besides, isn't she with Chris Davis anyway? - Steve leaned against his chair, staring at Bucky through his screen. - Just relax.

(...)

A week had gone by and Y/N woke up with the sun shinning on her face. Being here was different than being in New York, it was quieter, calmer and all the sounds she could hear were the wind and the animals allowed close enough to the main house. This wasn't her childhood home, her parents had bought it yet it was comfortable. The furniture was the same and the feeling of her home was still available, it made her calm. Things were ... too much right now and she needed to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

She moved herself to the kitchen, pouring herself a cup of tea and seating on the wooden chair with her feet on top of the seat. Her mother walked into the kitchen a few moments later, kissing the top of her head before sitting down next to her daughter.

      - Do you want me to make you some eggs, shortcake?

      - I'm okay, mum. - she smiled at her mother. - Where's dad?

      - I sent him out to get some groceries. I wanted to talk to you alone.

      - That's never good.

      - Shortcake, I love having you here. You're my only daughter and I love it when you come to visit but it feels like you're running away.

      - I'm not running away, mum. I just came to visit.

      - When you're 3 days away from defending your thesis? In the middle of the night? I've known you for 27 years, shortcake. You're not visiting, you're running.

      - I'm failing. - she sighed, with a scared laugh. - I've looked through my papers time and time again and in 3 days I'll make a fool of myself.

      - Y/N, c'mon. - her mother put her hand on her shoulder. - You said that about your undergraduate and your masters. You've never actually came to me and told me something is going well academically.

      - This is different. I've invested almost four years of my life into this and I'm just so tired. The thought of failing is just ... terrifying.

      - You've always doubted yourself, always put so much weight onto your own shoulders. You don't need to be the best, Y/N. You don't need to impress us or make us proud, we've been proud and impressed by you since the moment you were born. Running away here is not gonna solve how you feel and you, Y/N, have never been a quitter. - her mother caressed her face, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. - You gave it your best, that's all you can do.

      - There's more. - since she was airing out things, maybe she should talk about this. It wasn't like she could talk to her friends, she didn't have many and she couldn't talk to her colleagues about it either. - There's this guy.

      - Christopher?

      - Not Christopher. Another guy ... He told me he liked me and it just ... it freaked me out.

      - Do you like him?

      - I ... I don't actually know. I, I never really allowed myself to think of him like that. He's different.

      - How different?

      - I never considered ending up with someone like him, you know? He's not what I'd envision ever but he feels, he feels like the only person who seems me. He seems me not postdoctoral student Y/N, not who I may be if I succeed or if I fail. Just me.

      - Then what is the problem?

      - I think he also doesn't consider himself ending up with someone like me. I think .... I think I could love him but he would never let me because I'm not the ending that he pictured. I'm just not the one.

taglist: @talesofadragon @themermaidscales82 @winters1917 @vladsgirlxx @stinkerbelle007 @maybefoxysouls @blackwood-bodecker-housewife @chipilerendi @kandis-mom @belennasif @abitofblues @buckybarnessimpp

[diejager]

I have been thinking about toxic dynamics with yan!König and I think that apathetic or unbothered reader is fun. It's based on the attachment theory and one of the dynamic include the anxious chaser and the apathetic avoidant who's being chased. KorTac operator!darling for the sake of another toxic cat and mouse game!

Hmmm maybe you're the first one to bond with him before Horangi, and you're doing it to satisfy your curiosity. You entertain the colonel, and you guys have a friendly relationship but to you, he's just another normal face in this life of yours. He's nice, but you feel zero spark nor passion in this friendship of yours. To König? You're his everything.

I think the yandere tendencies start to appear when he realizes that he's not a priority to you. Simply another face in the crowd although you never mistreated him. And since the reader is a problem too, reader doesn't see the value of investing time in the colonel, rather uses her time to invest on herself because poor colonel isn't a priority. Besides, he has Horangi and needs to learn the art of socializing.

Basically König overthinking everywhere and anywhere while reader's in her room doing her hobbies/taking care of herself, uncaring about the colonel.

You get bored easily, and need something to keep you grounded, keep you attached less you stumble into something people wouldn’t want you to with carelessly blunt words and an apathetic mind. Some have called you a psychopath, able to live a normal life, actively seeking gratification and fulfilling your ambitions despite the danger it brings; despite the pain it causes others; despite the lies and deception you use to achieve them.

Military was one of them. Some had normal, boring faces, whose minds were built like an intricately designed maze filled with possibilities and interesting things that made it worth pursuing, and others had beautifully scarred faces and unique traits, but were as boring as a wallflower, mundane and unchanging, normal and sane. All too boring for a curious mind like yours.

Then you met König, a giant with his face hidden - unknown - and fleeting moods that went from commandingly dominating and anxiously jumpy. You found him interesting, a nagging curiosity urging you to dig and unravel whatever curiosities he hid in that mind of his. He was an object of fascination to you, something you decided to invest your time into discovering, with lies and truths, promises and deceits, everything was a possibility as long as it served your goal.

The Colonel was a source of entertainment and power, but to him - as apathetic and cold as you were - you were a friend. Your little manipulation and charming words wormed it’s way into his mind the same way they did in your Ops, wielding a serpent’s silver tongue and the devil’s charm, you were something that he both admired and hated. It didn’t help that you acted the same around him, unbothered and unafraid —it made him feel normal.

So it’s not much of a surprised that he became obsessed with you, unwilling to part ways with you if he could, wanting to know you, your likes, your dislikes, your hobbies and your passions; and as long as he kept your interest going, this wouldn’t be the last of you he’d be seeing.

[punderdome]

Infernal Jurisprudence: Chapter 4

Summary: Raphael observes more than a magic lesson.

[AO3]

Rating 18+

Chapter 4: The Weave

Raphael was incensed at the audacity of one of the two beings contained within the Astral Prism.  One of them was bound in Infernal chains.  The other was an Illithid trying to worm its way into the minds of his investments.  Raphael was not pleased.

He wanted to know what kind of figure the Illithid appeared as in Tavara’s dream.  Clearly someone tall and handsome with a regal air about him.  Raphael imagined a human figure with chestnut brown hair and golden eyes, well dressed and well spoken.  Much like himself but less attractive.  

The adventurers were all buzzing about their strange shared dream, and discussing the various figures they had seen.  Golden paladins, beautiful women, distrusted Githyanki.  The Little Mouse never mentioned what kind of figure she saw.  She sat by the campfire eating leftover stew and a small piece of stale bread in silence.

Her gaze seemed far away that morning, as she likely pondered what the day would hold.  Raphael wished he could reach into her mind and learn all of her secrets.

Tavara pulled the vampling away into a hidden corridor of their camp.  “Astarion, you need to tell them,” she implored.  Hells, the other adventurers were so blind.

“But why, darling, there is no reason to shake the boat, if you will.”

“They all think this shared dream we had was because of the dehydrated boar that you fed us yesterday.  I’m sure that’s the result of you feeding on it, and then feeding it to us.”  All of them were idiotic, including Tavara, to have assumed that carrion was safe to eat.  Raphael would make sure Tavara was well fed.

“I had a similar dream, but my figure was not a happy one.”  Astarion rubbed the back of his neck and asked for everyone to come forward.

Tavara looked at him with pity.  “Astarion, it’s going to be worse the longer you hide it.  It’s better now than someone discovering you feeding on something.”

The vampire spawn called the others over before explaining that he was a vampire spawn.  Tavara placed her arms around him in an embrace and immediately defused any irritation.

“Astarion, don’t forget, I taste absolutely awful,” the wizard exclaimed before taking his leave.

“Astarion, it’s ok.  We love you,” Tavara asserted.

***

Later that night, Tavara passed the location of Jergal, waiting for her by the river bank.

“Withers, what will happen to all of us after we die?” Tavara asked, uncertain of the answer.

“Every soul must reckon unto itself a fate.”  Jergal answered her.  Raphael was frustrated.  Tavara was to be celebrated.

“Am I to be part of the wall of the faithless?” Tavara asked the former god.

“No.”  Jergal answered.

“Can you elaborate?”

“No.” 

Tavara sighed.  She stormed off into the depths of their camp.

The wizard was standing at his tent, blatantly pining over a conjured image of Mystra.  He touched the hair on the conjured image.  Tavara stumbled upon him as he gazed at the image of his goddess.

“Mystra?” she said with a hint of surprise.  The wizard immediately let the image falter and dusted off his hands quickly.  He turned to face the Little Mouse.

“Oh! You startled me, I was miles away,” the wizard chattered nervously.

“It’s perfectly fine, you can conjure up the Lady of Mysteries all you like,” Tavara assured him.  “I’m no stranger to wizards conjuring up images of Mystra.”  She put her hand on her hip.  The wizard smiled nervously.

“You aren’t?” 

“I have a wizard’s education.  I’ve seen more wizards conjuring images of her than I can count.  I’m certain at least a few of them were their fantasies for later when they were alone.”  Gale of Waterdeep visibly cringed.  Fascinating.

A flurry of snowflakes fell from the Little Mouse’s palm onto the dirt outside the wizard’s tent.

“Magic is my life, I’ve been in touch with the Weave for as long as I can remember.  There’s nothing like it, it’s like beauty, music, and poetry all rolled into one.”  The wizard paused for dramatic effect.  “Is it the same for you?”  Raphael was curious to see what the Little Mouse would say.

“My magic is ancient and raw, sometimes even volatile.”  Raphael closed his eyes and thought about Tavara’s power.  The universities had been lucky to have her.  She was singular.

“Yes, as raw and ancient as the veins of Bahamut,” the wizard mused.  Raphael didn’t like the way her power was so easily discarded.  “Perhaps I can show you what I mean by reaching into the Weave together.”  Raphael’s eyes narrowed as he watched the wizard interacted with the Mouse.

Tavara smiled.  “Of course,” she grandly gestured for the wizard to continue.

The wizard demonstrated an easy set of somatic components meant to channel the Weave.  He moved quickly and clapped his hands together to pull the magic forward and bring the two of them into its circle.  “Now you,” the wizard motioned for Tavara to follow his motions.  She imitated his somatic component with ease.  You absolute fool, she doesn’t even need the somatic or verbal components to access the Weave.   Raphael sneered at the blatant disrespect of his Little Mouse.  He wanted to reach through the glass of the scrying mirror and drag the nitwit by his hair to his dungeons for a proper punishment.  A few dozen turns around the windmill would set him right.

“Now, repeat after me: Ah-Thran Mystra-Ryl Kantrach-Ao,” the foolish wizard instructed.

“Ah-Thran Mystra-Ryl Kantrach-Ao,” Tavara repeated easily with a look of amusement on her face.  The Waterdhavian donkey really did think his stupid little incantation was significantly harder than Hellfire or any other arcane arts, didn’t he?  He clearly thinks too much of himself.

Raphael watched the shimmer of the Weave appear around them.  He wanted to burn the rosewater-scented sanctuary and replace it with sulfur and Hellfire and true power.  The Weave connecting them disgusted him.

“You’re channeling the Weave,” the wizard started.  Obviously, she’s a sorceress, she’s done this hundreds of times before.   “How does it feel?” The wizard’s dull brown eyes smiled down at her while Tavara ran her hands over the spell connecting them.  Her fingers traced gracefully over the glowing satin of the Weave.

“The same as it always does,” Tavara replied with a smirk.  Raphael knew she wouldn’t accept his patronizing attitude forever.  She had a wizard’s education, but that contemptuous fool would never see her as his superior, which she clearly was.

“You’re hard to please, aren’t you?” The bearded donkey didn’t seem displeased at her blatant disrespect, but Raphael was certain it was an attempt to send the wizard away.  The Little Mouse clearly had no interest in such a weak and pathetic man.

There was a long pause as the Little Mouse held the fool’s gaze.  The Little Mouse smiled at the wizard, and Raphael despised the look he was giving her.  The elation behind the wizard’s half smile left Raphael fuming.  She should be furious at how little the wizard respected her talents and education.

“Sorry, I wasn’t expecting…” the wizard failed to finish his thought.  Finally, he’s silent.  “A pleasant image to be sure.  Most pleasant, in fact, most welcome.”  Raphael was displeased by the long gaze between the Mouse and her companion.  “There it goes,” the wizard mused as the Weave evaporated.  Hellfire is a much more potent arcane art.  The Mouse understands this.   “How easily things slip away from us, no matter how hard they were in the obtaining.”

The wizard smiled, but hurried to excuse himself from the situation.  Good.  “Goodnight, I enjoyed sharing a moment of magic with you.”  Raphael was rolling his eyes at the vision in the scrying mirror.  Tavara was the powerful one, and he should be learning from her.

The two parted, and Tavara returned to her tent.  Fuming, Raphael set the scrying mirror down on his desk.

Raphael was irritable after seeing the wizard get so close to the Little Mouse.  He paced around his study for a time, before deciding he needed to return to his work.  First, he pulled out the scrying mirror again, as he often did, to check to see that the Little Mouse had fallen asleep.

Tavara laid comfortably within her bedroll in her tent, but she definitely was not sleeping.  Raphael watched her moan softly.  Her eyes were closed, and her breathing was heavy and panting.  Her legs trembled slightly as she stroked herself underneath the blankets.

Raphael was intoxicated by the image in the scrying mirror.  He immediately unlaced his trousers and started to pleasure himself alongside her.  He watched her chest heave as she moaned, and her legs tensed.  She was struggling to relax her limbs, and Raphael was greedily awaiting seeing her come undone.

She was thinking of him.

Raphael was getting too close to his climax and slowed down pumping his shaft with his fist.  He was hard and aching for her.  He had watched Haarlep touch themselves in several forms on many occasions throughout the centuries, but it had never excited him like this.  Raphael desperately wanted to pull the blankets down to see what her fingers were doing to her.  Was she clothed or bare?   He paused again, needing to slow down or else he would come before the Mouse.

Her power.  Her strength.  Her charm.  Her beauty.

Raphael had seen consorts and wives of various Archdevils throughout the millennia, but many of them were cowardly, weak things.  They were submissive to their Archdevils.  That was not her.  Tavara was suitable to be the consort of the Archdevil Supreme.  He would take her to his bed in Nessus and make her produce all these beautiful little noises as he ravaged her.

Tavara’s back arched on her bedroll.  Raphael wanted nothing more than to climax at the same time as the Little Mouse, feeling their pleasure together across different planes.  He watched her writhe on her bedroll, she had to be getting close.

She clasped a hand over her mouth and moaned into it.  She was quaking.  It was too hard to resist the sight of her like this, and Raphael let himself come, Infernal seed covering his hands.  The pleasure of being with her was intense, and he found himself breathing hard as he came down from his high.

The Little Mouse hadn’t quite come yet.  Within a few seconds, he watched the euphoria appear on her face.  She ripped her hand away from her mouth, panting and breathing hard.  Raphael preened that the image of him had given her so much pleasure.

Tavara’s eyes drifted open sleepily.  “Gale,” she murmured softly into the solitude of her tent.

Raphael’s eyes narrowed, and he stiffened in his chair.  He was not going to let that pathetic wizard get any closer to his Little Mouse.

[forthechubbies]

A thought I felt like sharing.. snake hybrid min yoongi x mouse hybrid reader where yoongis mum walks in on him about to go down on her but he’s being a tease: “Don’t play with your food, son.”

I'm sorry I'm so late, I don't really expect anybody at actually talk to me so I never check lol I got like 2 more I think... I feel so loved. 🥰

I can't imagine Yoongi being anything other than a cat. Like, look at him. Little Kitty meow meow ฅ^•ﻌ•^ฅ. Smutty...kinda? Just beware, okay.

But a mouse hybrid seems perfect for a sadistic kitten like meow meow. I see him needing a collar not for domestication but for ✨ fashion ✨, honey. Anyway you the unlucky pip squeak got the sassy feline as a partner for project at work. In fear of being cut loose you played along...fighting through any trial he throws your way. No matter how * gulps * scary the threat -

You can't tell if he's purring or growling; it's a difficult call since his voice is so deep. “Hello, Minnie” speaks of the devil. He purred, using his long slender tail as a lasso to reel you into his chest where he commanded, excuse me, proposing the idea of having you for lunch with his parents. " Huh?! Speak up!" Yoongi teased, obnoxiously raising his voice over yours.

" I'm busy!" you squeaked out .

Your bluff was challenged.

" Oh yeah," He darkly chuckled, lowering his cherry lips to the curve of your round ear. "I'm sure your vibrator needs a little break, don't you think?".

You expected his parents to have somewhat more class than their son, but, indeed, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. When you arrive in yoongi's arms, his parents are over the moon at the way you cling to their son out of fear. You didn't realize the restaurant’s clientele is mainly cats.

"She's gorgeous, Yoongi." His mother purred, fluttering her ears. " but there's no point in being here if you bring your lunch." she chuckled as Yoongi did earlier. Like mother like son.

" Mother. " He scolded, flicking his tail before turning towards you. "you know how greedy I can be." those large green eyes fell on yours, occupying you from discovering his large hand creeping up to squeeze your ass.

[shinyzango]

So, about that "A Steampunk Carol" graphic novel...

I totally did not forget to make the post about it like I promised I am so sorry.

For those who are not familiar with it, long story short a while ago I came across a Kickstarter project for what seemed to be a steampunk adaptation of the Nutcracker story and was bummed that I missed out on it and wasn't able to support and secure a copy for myself, but a fella made me aware that it did actually get published in Italy a few years ago, and that it was sold on Amazon. And after discovering that there was literally only one copy left, I bought it on a whim to both read it and to hopefully attract more attention to it for reasons I'll discuss in just a bit.

I'm just going to say that I'm very back at writing reviews so apologies if this doesn't say anything at the end or if you didn't get the answers to your questions dkfjgn

Alright, now for the book itself.

First things first, the story. I won't go into details right now as I do not want to spoil folks in case this does get released in english to a wider public, but I can add a Spoilers section in the future where I explain in detail what happens if I get asked about it.

The story, like I said, is an adaptation of the Nutcracker And The Mouse King, but it is quite different in many elements, and spices things up quite a bit, especially after the introduction.

Sadly it feels quite rushed in its execution imo, I assume it's because they had to fit everything in a single volume. Which is a shame because there are many concepts and ideas that are very fascinating and interesting, both for the plot and for the characters themselves.

Speaking of the characters, they are quite unique and interesting.

The main kid, Caitlin, who is the Clara/Marie of the story, can be a little sassy, but she still feels grounded and has a good balance between putting down her foot and being nervous about the situation. I don't mind her character.

The Nutcracker, who is only called Schiaccia (just a shortened "Schiaccianoci" which is nutcracker in italian. I assume he's called Cracker in english if they kept that logic), feels solid. He's a loyal soldier, skilled but does show hints of insecurities. A good lad.

The mice are great as well, I'm really intrigued by the lore they cooked up for them, and the Mouse King is actually not bad, and I like what they did with his character.

There's also another supporting character, a tin soldier who goes by Sergeant Idle. He is basically a companion to the Nutcracker. He is basically a plot tool, helping with the backstory and moving the story forward, but not in a bad way. He's very enjoyable.

I would have loved to see them all explored further, but like I said it all feels rushed probably because it had to stick all in a single volume. I don't know if the authors ever considered this to become a series or if it's just a one-shot story, but I would honestly love to see this evolve into a series, if only because I love the characters and I would love to know more about the lore they cooked up for it more in detail, letting all the elements have the time to shine.

Moving on to the graphic...

I love Lorenza's art style. It looks very sketchy, with a clean roughness to it if that makes sense. And I really like all the designs of the characters.

(Apologies for the glares, I tried my hardest to limit them as much as possible. also ngl I'm giggling a little seeing how Schiaccia looks similar to my Hans skdfkjhn)

All in all, I really like this adaptation. It's unique and enjoyable, if only a little rushed.

Like I mentioned before, this was Kickstarted a while ago to get properly published in english. It was successfully funded and as far as I know, they're currently in the process of printing copies if not even shipping them for the backers. I still don't know if the folks at Last Ember Press are planning in making it available to purchase outsite the Kickstart, but I really hope so because I do think this deserves to be available to everyone.

[insaincat]

Poltergeist AU. Shadow the Hedgehog. I made his boots and now I really want a pair. I made them too bad ass sob

Agent of G.U.N. After all the lies and hiding, he discovers some truths and decides to take out some scientists and higher workers in revenge. On his off time he's often found taking care of his motorcycle or attending local metal concerts.

Rouge is still an Agent working for G.U.N but more of as a spy than anything. The recent activity has had her align herself with more favorable parties like Shadow.

Amy is a martial arts trainer teaching the young and whoever wants to learn how to protect themselves. She has scars from the war, mostly from objects being blown up or crushed by her hammer or knuckle's fists. She's had a few close calls.

Knuckles lost a leg and eye during the war after stepping on a land mine. He was fast enough to get away alive but had to rely on technology in order to keep fighting.

Tails looks like he got off rather unscathed, thanks to his friends protecting him the most. He does have a rather bad scar on his back and one of his tails since, unlike his friends, he only has fur for protection. It still makes his tail act up on rainy days.

Cream was put through hell due to a kidnapping. She's always liked metal but now, instead of just drums, she throws herself into vocals. During her time missing she ended up becoming a big sister-like character to Tart.

Tart (OC) is a little mouse girl who enjoys eating. She was kidnapped by a G.U.N agent before Cream was. She has abusive parents and is eventually adopted by Vanilla, with Sonic and Shadow as her godfathers. She calls Shadow Blackhog Hero and Sonic Mr. (Nice)Monster.

[gemini-sensei]

Sims | Hawk Moskowitz

Thank you @sensei-venus for putting this out there. I just had to write a whole thing about it because duh. So here we go, some fluff with a dash of sims.

When Reader was tidying up her apartment she shared with Hawk, she didn't anticipate getting sidetracked. She was just cleaning off his desk, making sure not to bump into his gaming computer as she did so, but of course she hit the mouse. The screen came to life so brightly, showing her the last game he'd been playing and it made her giggle.

He Sims 4 was still open, but the game was paused. The camera was hovering over a room in the house centered on a Sim that looked a lot like her boyfriend, with a large mohawk, shirtless and covered tattoos. It made her giggle and she sat down to take a closer look.

She was taking a little tour of the house to see everything Hawk had put into it. It was obvious a lot of time and effort was put into it, the house itself rather big with three levels, including a basement, and a backyard filled with little bonsai trees. It was stunning for a game house and she loved it, all of the decor matching with their own style that they'd curated for themselves in the little apartment that they called home.

There with photos on the wall, all of her favorite plants and flowers set up inside or around the property, big stylish windows like she's always wanted. As she noticed the greenhouse attached to the main building, she realized her boyfriend has built her dream home in the game. All the talks about what she wanted in that department hadn't fallen on deaf ears, she already knew that, but to see it reflected in the game was heartwarming and sweet.

As she looked at the pictures of the sims in the house, she saw herself reflected as well. Her body was chubby and her style was on point, as she would come to learn that he'd downloaded costum content to get the clothes right as well as her hair. She was so flattered, so in love, so giggly.

It didn't take her long to find the other sim occupants as well, including one dog, one cat, and two little infant babies.

As she clicked to view the babies, she found them happily asleep in their cribs. The room they were in was decorated in all pinks and purples, with a princess castle on the floor and long drapes over the windows. Two twin girls with full bellies laid asleep, well cared for. She awed at their cute little faces and the names that had been chosen for them. As she looked at their stats and everything, she discovered one was a little more shy while the other was outgoing.

Only when she found the pictures on the wall of her sim pregnant and Hawk's sim fussing over her belly did she come to a realization. She blushed as she wondered, does he want kids? Is that what this means?

She put the game back the way she found it and hurried to clean up the area like she had planned on doing in the first place. Though she tried buying herself with the tidying and chores, she couldn't stop thinking about the game. She tried to tell herself that it was just a game, but at the same time she had a feeling it was much more than that...

Several days passed before she decided to ask Hawk. She didn't want him to know she had seen his game, believing it was fairly private, so when she did it, she kept that part out of it. She kept it casual, almost too casual, as they cuddled up on the couch watching one of their comfort shows. It popped into her mind again and she simply asked,

"Do you ever think about having kids?"

He looked at her, then shrugged as he turned back to the TV. "Yeah, sometimes."

She could tell that he was trying to act really casual about it, but his body was a little tense under her all of a sudden and she knew better.

"And?"

"Yeah, I guess I'd like to have kids some day." He quickly cut a look her way, eyes unreadable. "What about you?"

She smiled at him. "Yeah... well, I mean, I've thought about it before but it didn't really come back to me until recently."

She got a little shy and looked away from him. He paused their show and say up a bit, making her shift and sit up too.

"Reader, is this your way of asking something?"

She looked up at him, cheeks growing warm. "I mean, maybe."

She didn't really know. She didn't know where this would go, having not thought that far ahead inall of this. She bit her lip and looked away from him.

He gently took her chin in between his the and index finger, then turned her face to look at him again. He spoke softly.

"Is this your way of asking me if I wanna have a baby with you?" He asked her. He looked into her eyes with his warm blue ones amd it was like swimming in the ocean on a summer's day. "Because if so, I'm all for it... because that's something I want with you more than anything."

"Really?" she asked just as softly.

He nodded and she smiled wide. She leaned into him and kissed him, throwing her arms around him and he caught her as they fell back onto the couch cushion. He groaned against her lips, enjoying the excitement and passion behind her force. With that sort of energy, they were making out in no time, their clothes slowly falling to the floor piece by piece.

There was little planning to it, little thought other than "we want this together," and while neither of them said they were "trying," they knew in their hearts what they were doing. Hawk didn't have to know it was all thanks to his little game.

[luniidae]

~ As Red as Blood ~

Chapter IX

Note: Hi everyone! I hope you'll enjoy this new chapter ✨ I'm always "scared" of making mistakes since I used to write a lot, a long time, and late at night 😂

____________________________________

Luvia still couldn't get out of her room. Most of the time, she lay on her bed, staring blanky, her eyes redden by tears. A lot had happened in a very short time, starting with her physical transformation. She hadn't had time to get used to her new body when someone had already "appropriated" it, in the worst possible way, making her feel like it didn't really belong to her...

She had woken up in her bed, not remembering how she had gotten back to her room. On the other hand, she had certainly not forgotten what Haarlep had done to her the day before. Her body hurt, some places more than others... And there were so many things that she couldn't forget and that played over and over in her head. Like the way they stared at her the whole time, satisfied with the effect they had on her, or how their hands had touched her, scratched her, damaged her to make her feel like nothing more than an object. But what disturbed her even more was how she had felt. If Luvia felt some self-loathing, it was largely due to the fact that she knew nothing about the powers of an incubus. For her, everything she had felt was true, authentic, and the simple idea that she was able to appreciate every second spent in their clutches was enough to make her nauseous. Tears came to her eyes each time, ashamed of not having been able to resist them, betrayed by her own body.

Korilla visited her every day to check if she was alright, she even tried to talk to her, but the young woman did not respond. Luvia didn't want to hear her own voice which was now slightly different, it would have been like acknowledging that everything that had happened so far was real. And she couldn't bear that.

For his part, Raphael still couldn't bring himself to go talk to her. He felt he didn't "need" to do it, and what could he say to her anyway? That he regretted his action? He wasn't sure about this... And even if he did, it wouldn't erase anything that had been done and Luvia would still be hurt no matter what. However, an idea came to him, something that would allow him to establish contact with the young woman without her needing to respond: what about a dress ? The one the Dracanist wore before her transformation was now unwearable, and while it might seem trivial at first, he figured that sending her a new one would be a good way to let her know that he cared about her, in his own way. But this time, he would not use his powers as had been the case until now. No, this time he would call on some sort of “hellish tailors” to have the perfect dress made.

“As dark as the ocean, and as red as blood,” he told them. He also provided them with other details, particularly regarding the materials to be used. Velvet, taffeta, satin... Raphael was a very demanding kind of person and the infernal tailors had to try several times before giving him complete satisfaction.

The next morning, as Luvia gradually emerged from her torpor, she saw a box placed on her dresser. The young woman stood up with difficulty and walked forward slowly, intrigued by this new object. It was a rectangular box, quite flat, a deep red and decorated with a golden ribbon. She opened it, and first discovered a cherry scented card on which a few words were carefully written

"A gift for my little mouse"

Little mouse.... Luvia grimaced. This nickname had a bitter taste since Haarlep had used it too. She put the card down and carefully unwrapped the contents of the box, it was a dress. The fabric was soft and the various seams and embroideries gave a pleasant relief to the touch. She took the dress out of its box and held it in front of her as she looked in the mirror. She gently waved the petticoat to see it better, it was truly a beautiful piece of art. That said, she suddenly felt uncomfortable looking at her own reflection, so she decided to cover the mirror and put the dress back in its box. This strange and unpleasant feeling of not being right in this  body. And when it became too much to bear, Luvia sometimes ended up hurting herself. Her nails were short but sharp, like little claws, and it was not difficult for her to cut her own flesh. Faster, stronger, as if she was absolutely trying to get rid of this new envelope that had already been so bruised.

But as a Dracanist, her regenerative abilities (provided by her horns) made it impossible for her to actually harm herself. No matter how hard she tried, the wounds closed almost immediately. Furthermore, her blood was not flowing normally.

Indeed, the deepest wounds let out some sort of reddish gleams which rose around her before vanishing: blood magic. It was apparently a power unique to her species, but she only knew the theoretical part of it. She couldn't handle the view of her body... A body she considered soiled. No matter how many baths she could take, she still felt like Haarlep was upon her anytime.

It had been three days now since Raphael had sent the dress to Luvia, but the little mouse apparently still hadn't decided to point the tip of her snout. But according to Korilla, she had since started eating again, although it was in small quantities. However, the devil wanted to try a new approach, despite his patience slowly reaching its limits. He decided to have another present made for her, something more meaningful than a dress, more... Personal, and this time, he would bring it to her himself. It had taken a few days to complete, given the meticulous nature of the thing, but he was sure it would elicit a reaction. Raphael didn't imagine having to visit Luvia. The idea had been suggested to him by Korilla some time ago but he had rejected it outright, believing that he didn't have to take the first step and that, in any case, Luvia would eventually come back to him. But that's not what happened, and the cambion was starting to lose patience. This turnaround was only intended to push the young woman to trust him again, or at least that's what he liked to think. In fact, he missed her, in a way. It must be said that Luvia had almost always lived in the House of Hope, and that she and Raphael were used to seeing and interact with each other every day. Exceptionally, Raphael took his human form for this occasion. He remembered Haarlep's satisfied look when they reminded him that it was with his appearance they had tormented her, so he felt that his demonic form wouldn't make a good impression on the young woman.

One day, he came knocking on her door.

“I would have expected a better welcome,” he said calmly since he got no answer.

Suddenly, he heard quick footsteps coming and the door finally opened. Luvia was standing before him, she looked exhausted and emotionless, her red eyes locked on him.

"Greetings, little mouse"

The young woman sadly frowned, it seemed a bit painful to hear this.

"Greetings fa-", she grimaced, "..... Raphael...", she answered with a hint of hesitation, a sad but resigned look on her face.

"It's been a while since we last saw you, and I must admit that the atmosphere in my House of Hope has deteriorated significantly, especially since you decided to confine yourself to one and same room", he paused a few seconds,"So I brought a little something that could, let's say, "help" you in a way...." The cambion handed her a box. It wasn't as large as the dress's one, but it was finely decorated. She took it with slowly and opened it, wondering what it could be and how it could help her. Did he really think he could fix everything with - ... What was that ? There were two golden rings, but they were.... Opened ? And too big for a hand.

Luvia looked up Raphael, intrigued, raising an eyebrow. She didn't understand what she was seeing. The devil chuckled before her confusion.

"It is made of infernal iron, for the most part... Impregnate with a powerful regenerative and conservative magic. Very... Protective, I must say. I had them made especially for you. For your horns".

"I am not sure to understand", she admitted.

"As long as you'll be wearing them, it will help your horns to regrow and they will remain intact and strong. No one will ever be able to do any harm to them, not even me", he said, placing a hand on his chest. 

"So.... Does it mean.... ?", Luvia didn't dare to ask, scared to misunderstand.

"You horns are all yours, forever", he nodded.

If the young woman had expressed little emotion until now, her eyes widened in shock. What Luvia had endured so far was now behind her ? Really ? No one would have to mutilate her ever again ? As she gently closed the box so as not to drop its contents, and as she realized what it meant, her eyes filled with tears and she felt her hands and her legs trembling.

She couldn't speak, so without a word, she threw herself at Raphael, clinging tightly to him as if she feared he would disappear at any second. She burst into tears, releasing everything she had kept for herself for years, all the pain, all the times she would have wanted to be held by him to comfort her, to make her feel safe, loved, to show her she mattered... And all the times she felt so lonely. Her nails digged into his back, but the devil didn't mind. He didn't expect such an emotional reaction but, to be honest, he didn't really know what he was expecting anyway. It was strange to have her so close to him, he could feel her heart beating fast through her ribcage and she didn't seem in the mood to release her grip now. Raphael wasn't sure of what he should do next, but he kind of enjoyed their proximity. He eventually wrapped his arms around her, uncertain, holding her against him while she was still crying.

"I... I am sorry....", she managed to say between a few sobs.

The cambion raised an eyebrow "Sorry ? About what ?"

"I'm crying on your doublet", she answered.

Raphael giggled nervously, "Oh little Mouse...", he said, putting a hand behind her head to stroke her hair until she finally calmed herself down... "Would you join me later for the dinner ? You must be starving after all these days...", he proposed softly.

The young woman kept holding him tight and simply nodded against him. She looked like a woman but in the end, she was still a young girl, still craving for attention and love. She needed him, and no matter how much she had been hurt by his words, and by the fact he abandoned her in the Boudoir, she couldnt help herself but love him. She didn't know why but that was how she felt. Her grip softened and Raphael caught her shoulders to make her move back and look at her, swiping away a few tears of her cheeks.

"Oh look at you...", he cupped her face in his hands, "Don't waste this pretty face of yours with those tears, shall you ?"

She nodded shyly.

"Perfect, little Mouse"

"Can i ask you something?", she managed to say.

"Anything, my dear", he listened carefully.

"Could you.... Stop calling me this ? Please", she asked, avoiding his gaze.

He raised an eyebrow, intrigued by her demande but he accepted it.

"As you wish... Luvia", he paused for a few seconds before adding, "Would you like me to use another name, perhaps... ?"

"I don't know", she admitted, "It's just.... I don't want to be a mouse anymore..."

"Alright then"

His serious gaze softened, "Anyway, I'll be waiting for you to dinner later. I hope to see you there" He smiled at her but she couldn't know if he was sincere or not.

Once he was gone, she felt.... Empty. That was a very strange feeling. These few moments spent with him felt like a peaceful bubble in the spikes of her sorrow.

By the way, she examined the objects he gave to her earlier and took one of the rings out of its box. It was made of iron but it felt incredibly light, it has a golden color and was decorated by carved infernal winged creature, but among them, there was a smallest one... A little mouse.

Of course there was...

The view of this gave her a unpleasant sensation and a comforting feeling at the same time. She'll always be his little mouse.... But she decided to not pay attention to this detail. She placed herself in front of her mirror to uncovered it and took a deep breath seeing her own face. She brought an open ring to one of her horns, the longer one. Once the jewelry was close enough, it instinctively wrapped itself around it. It was strange to see a solid object moving with such flexibility, but the sensation was surprisingly agreeable.... It almost felt like a tender embrace, warm and comforting, it almost brought new tears to her already watery eyes. She found it hard to fully realize that her horns would never be mistreated again, and deep down she hoped that her whole being would never be again as well. She took a moment to admire herself once the two rings were on her head. 

Meanwhile, in the corridors, Raphael was walking confidently, satisfied of the effect his present had on Luvia. He was determined to have her back, since he needed her powers, but he was also feeling "relieved". He met Korilla.

She looked at him, knowing where he was coming from and noticing his smug look.

"Is everything fine, Master ?", she dared to ask.

"We will see her today", he answered as he kept walking.  

The dwarf couldn't help herself but slightly smiled, relieved but intrigued by her boss's methods. 

Later this day, at dinner time, the large table was full of various and appealing dishes, and the scent of this was positively divine. It would have been hard to resist such a feast...

As stealthy and silent as a shadow, Luvia appeared at the entrance of the room. Her lips were tinted of a dark cherry color, just as her eyes, her gaze accentuated by a black trait at the end of her eyes. She was wearing the golden rings around her horns and these looked far more healthy already. But she was also wearing her new dress.... As dark as the ocean and as red as blood.

Raphael, who was already here, tilted his head to observe her coming, an astonished look on his face.

"Who is this beautiful creature who honor us with her presence", he said warmly, "My dear, you look perfect. I always knew the velvet would suit you"

Luvia wasn't expecting such reaction. Actually, she couldn't understand being seen as "beautiful", or "perfect", or anything such. The pale skin of her face slightly pinked at this compliment, making the devil smirk. She finally took place at the table, at her usual place. She had spent so much time in her bedroom that this place looked almost unfamiliar to her now.  

"Enjoy, my sweet"

During dinner, the cambion couldn't help but scrutinize the young woman from time to time out of the corner of his eye. Although she was the same, he felt like there was another person in front of him, one who had nothing to do with the crying, miserable girl he had seen earlier in the day. Luvia had a confident, almost playful look, but a hint of sadness in her eyes betrayed her. Raphael was almost impressed by how easily she concealed her emotions.

However, a spark of determination suddenly crossed her eyes, and she began to stare at the devil. She seemed to have something to ask...

"Hm? Is something troubling you, my dear?", he raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

"It's about blood magic, I'd like to learn more about it, and I'm not talking about the theory", there was no hesitation in her voice, as if she expected no less from him that he accepts.

"Hm, that's a subject we weren't supposed to study this early....", he replied seriously, resting his chin on one of his hands.

"I thought we could speed things up, since I don't have to 'pretend' to be an adult anymore... As you said", she answered.

Raphael gave her a smile, he remembered these words well, "you won't have to pretend any longer", that's what he had told her before leaving her in the Boudoir.

"Very well, little one, if that's really what you want.... We'll start your practical training tomorrow then. But for now, let's just enjoy the evening, would you ?"

Luvia nodded and did her best to not let it show anything, but there was a glimmer of excitement in her eyes. She couldn't wait to show him she was more than just a little mouse..

To be continued...

Bonus: